How Long Does it Take to Straighten Teeth with Invisalign®?

(Last Updated On: January 8, 2023)

With the advancement in dental technologies, straightening your teeth has never been easier. Whether you have a gap, crowding, an overbite or underbite, Invisalign® is a simple solution to straightening teeth.

How Does Invisalign® Work?

Invisalign® works by straightening the teeth through a series of clear aligners made from plastic material. Your dentist uses a 3D image of your teeth, allowing you to preview how your smile will adjust throughout the course of the Invisalign treatment. You’re then given a set of Invisalign® aligners to gradually shift your teeth into place. On average, each set of aligners will be worn for one week.

Can I Eat with Invisalign®?

Unlike braces, there are no restrictions when it comes to what you can eat. But we advise against foods that can stain the aligners such as curry and tomato based foods. It’s ok to eat with your aligners in, however it is important to brush and floss your teeth after you eat and then replace your aligners back in so food or bacteria is not trapped between your teeth and the aligners. 

Helpful Tip: Make sure you don’t chew gum with Invisalign®

What Shouldn’t I Do While Wearing Invisalign®?

When transitioning to a new set of clear aligners, you may experience some slight discomfort from the pressure; this is completely normal. It’s crucial not to play with the aligners or put them in and out of your mouth. Try wearing your new aligners at night so you can sleep through the discomfort.

Some other things you shouldn’t do while wearing Invisalign® include:

• Don’t use soaps with dyes  to clean your trays.
• Don’t leave your trays out in the open. Open air can lead to a buildup of bacteria. 
• Don’t wear your Invisalign less than 22 hours per day.

So, How Long Does It Take to Straighten My Teeth?

How long you wear Invisalign depends on your desired result. Some patients only need to wear Invisalign® for three months while others need to wear Invisalign for a year. If you’re only looking to close a small gap, this can often be closed within a short period of time. The gap can reopen if a retainer is not worn post-treatment. If you’re constantly taking your aligners out or wearing them less than 22 hours per day, you’ll be required to extend your treatment as your teeth will not shift properly.

When using Invisalign® + PROPEL® you can change your smile in 1/2 the time of traditional Invisalign treatment!

Learn About Our Accelerated Orthodontics

Book a Consultation with Longwood Dental

Get in touch with our dentists in Brookline to schedule a consultation. Our experienced team of specialty dentists will discuss financing options, answer any questions and walk you through the entire process. 

Check Out Our Invisalign®Treatment Guidelines